This is a timely yet difficult topic …one that we don’t really think about when purchasing wine. Last Friday I was honored to present a wine tasting event focused on BIPOC producers. I’d like to share some takeaways and a short video with you today.
Here are some facts:
- Of over 8,000 wineries located within the United States, less than 5 percent are Black-owned.
- There are only 2 indigenous owned wineries in North America
- In 2020 there were only 52 Latino owned wineries in California, even though they have been making wine in the New World since the time of the Spanish conquerors brought vines with the missionaries
In my presentation I chose to quote some important people of color in the wine industry so we could hear their authentic voices and learn how we can be part of the change to create a more equitable and inclusive wine industry. Here you go…..
Theodora Lee, Owner and Vintner, Theopolis Vineyards AKA Theo-patra, Queen of the Vineyards
“We need consumers to see Black wine makers as producers of fine wine and not some affirmative action project. We need consumers to take us seriously, purchase our wine and support organizations that promote social justice and inclusion. We need consumers to tell retailers to carry our wines. ”
Brenae Royal, first and only black female vineyard manager and the youngest-ever in the history of Monte Rosso Vineyard
•“I think the best way to amplify Black voices is to hire Black voices. Wine companies should look for and find opportunities to increase diversity in all areas of the business, including management. Create space and opportunities for more diversity in your organization and recognize the value you add by doing so.”
Marvina Robinson, Owner, Stuyvesant Champagne
“This is not a fad. Black businesses and wineries are not going anywhere. For consumers who want to support Black-owned businesses, like Nike’s slogan “Just Do It”. In addition to monetary support, talk about Black owned businesses, post pictures, articles, referrals, and leave a review.”
Theresa Broderick and Dulely Perez, Wine Educators, Bloggers and Influencers, Cruology Wines
What You Can Do:
•Talk about what you learned from this blog post – share on social media too
•Support BIPOC owned or produced wines and use social media and wrod of mouth to promote them
•Ask retailers to carry these brands
•Educate yourself – stayed informed
I’ll be posting another blog with some BIPOC wines we tried at the event as well as some new ones you can be on the lookout for…in the mean time, think about your choices and the impact they have on the world.
Cheers!
